Lecturers plead for help to rescue 'broke universities from collapse

Universities Academics Staff Union Secretary General Constine Wesonga (right) with National chairman Muga K'Olale (center) and other UASU members during a meeting in Nakuru. [Photo by Kipsang Joseph/Standard]

Academic staff have painted a gloomy picture of the financial status of public universities and called for national dialogue to support the institutions of higher learning.

In a blow-by-blow letter to Education Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed, the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) states that funding of the universities has not matched their rapid growth over the years.

The letter dated February 12 explains why negotiations on salary, pension, and other allowances drag and cites several financial gaps that need to be addressed.

The letter signed by the Uasu secretary general, Constantine Wasonga, claims there is a funding deficit of Sh3.5 billion, funds meant for pension arrears for 2010-2013 and 2013-2017.

In addition, Uasu alleges that universities have failed to remit statutory deductions to the Kenya Revenue Authority, the National Social Security Fund, and the National Hospital Insurance Fund.

“The financial situation of universities has now reached crisis levels and unless it is addressed immediately, there is danger of imminent collapse of higher education,” said Dr Wasonga.